All About Moon Valley Pilea
Pilea mollis ‘Moon Valley’
The Pilea mollis, or Moon Valley, gets its fun name from the divots in its leaves that resemble craters on the moon. These plants have highly textured leaves that are bright to dark green in color and grow short and bushy in stature.
When in bloom, they grow tiny white to pink flowers. The flowers are a nice surprise but they don’t hold a candle to the gorgeous leaves.
They are easy to care for and propagate, which is where the species gets its nickname ‘Friendship Plant’.
How to Care for Moon Valley Pilea
Moon Valley Pilea, also known as Pilea mollis, is a fascinating and visually striking houseplant that has gained popularity among plant enthusiasts.If you’re a beginner looking to care for this beautiful plant, this guide will provide you with essential tips and techniques to ensure your Moon Valley Pilea thrives and flourishes.
Light: Moon Valley Pilea prefers bright, indirect light, but it can tolerate lower light conditions. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. A location near a north or east-facing window would be ideal.
Temperature: Pileas prefer a temperature between 60-75°F (15-24°C) is best for the plant’s overall health. They can still grow and thrive in higher temperatures but may need more frequent waterings.
Water: Proper watering is crucial for the Moon Valley Pilea. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause wilting and stress. It’s advisable to water thoroughly and ensure good drainage to prevent excess moisture.
Humidity: Pileas prefer humidity levels at 50% or higher. To increase humidity mist the leaves occasionally. Check out our article How to Increase Humidity for more ideas.
Fertilizing: To promote healthy growth, fertilize the Moon Valley Pilea once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer.
Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that retains moisture but doesn’t become waterlogged. You can mix peat moss or perlite into the soil for improved drainage.
Pruning: Regular pruning helps maintain a bushy and compact appearance for your Moon Valley Pilea. Trim back any leggy or straggly growth to encourage new growth. Read on to learn How to Propagate Moon Valley Pilea
Care Summary
Zone
The ideal temperature range is 60° – 100 ℉
Pileas prefer warm, humid conditions.
Find your zone here.
Water
They don’t like to completely dry out.
Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil is dry.
If you are unsure, stick your finger in the soil.
Too much water can cause root rot
Size
These are small, compact plants.
Moon Valley Pilea grows to around 1 foot wide and 5 inches tall.
Light
Bright, indirect light but can grow well in medium-light situations.
Frost loves the morning sun.
Direct sun after 11 am can cause sunburn.
Soil
Use a rich potting mix that drains well.
Incorporate small pieces of orchid bark and perlite into regular or succulent soil to create more airflow.
Compost will add much-needed nutrients.
Humidity
50% or higher humidity levels.
Native to subtropical regions.
Fertilizer
Fertilize every during the growing season.
Once every three months with Green Grub Insect Frass.
For synthetic, use an all-purpose houseplant fertilizer with a balanced ratio.
Propagation
Division
Offsets
Stem or leaf cuttings
How to Propagate Moon Valley Pilea
Propagating the Moon Valley is simple. Just follow the directions below.
1. Take a stem cutting from your plant that has three to four leaves on it.
2. Place the stem one inch deep into a potting mix or into a cup of water for water rooting.
3. Keep the soil moist and warm for best rooting conditions and you should have growth in a couple of weeks. You can use this method to create new plants from cuttings or to fill out a current plant and make it larger and bushier.
Common Problems
Moon Valley Pilea, also known as Pilea mollis, is generally a resilient houseplant. However, like any other plant, it can encounter a few common problems. Being aware of these issues and their solutions will help you maintain a healthy and thriving Moon Valley Pilea.
Problem: Yellowing Leaves
Solution: Yellowing leaves in Moon Valley Pilea can be attributed to overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiencies. To address this issue, adjust the watering routine by allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. This will prevent overwatering and provide the plant with adequate moisture. Additionally, consider fertilizing the plant with a balanced houseplant fertilizer to provide the necessary nutrients that may be lacking.
Problem: Brown Spots on Leaves
Solution: Brown spots on Moon Valley Pilea leaves can indicate fungal infections or leaf scorching due to excessive sunlight exposure. To combat fungal infections, isolate the affected plant and treat it with a fungicide as directed on the product label. To prevent leaf scorching, move the plant to a location with indirect sunlight or provide some shade. This will protect the leaves from intense sunlight and reduce the occurrence of brown spots.
Problem: Pest Infestation
Solution: Moon Valley Pilea can be susceptible to pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. If you notice signs of pest infestation, take immediate action. Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove visible pests and consider using an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil spray to control the infestation. Repeat the treatment as necessary to completely eradicate the pests and protect the plant’s health.
Problem: Leggy Growth
Solution: Leggy growth occurs when Moon Valley Pilea becomes tall and spindly with elongated stems and sparse foliage. This is often due to insufficient light. To address leggy growth, move the plant to a brighter location with indirect sunlight. Regular pruning can also help promote bushier growth. Trim back the long stems to encourage the development of new branches and fuller foliage, thereby preventing excessive legginess.
By understanding and addressing these common problems, you can ensure the optimal health and vitality of your Moon Valley Pilea. Regular observation, proper watering, appropriate lighting, and prompt pest control measures will help you maintain a thriving and visually appealing houseplant that brings joy and beauty to your indoor space.
Caring for Moon Valley Pilea can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, even for beginners. By providing the right environment, watering appropriately, and ensuring proper nutrition, you can create an optimal growing environment for this captivating houseplant. Regular maintenance and troubleshooting will help keep your Moon Valley Pilea healthy and vibrant, bringing natural beauty and tranquility to your home.
Get your very own Moon Valley Pilea here.
